Quality deterioration of mashed potatoes during the freeze-thaw cycle: From the perspective of moisture and microstructure

This study aimed to simulate cold chain sales temperatures to predict the effects of temperature fluctuations on the physicochemical properties, moisture distribution, microstructure, and flavor of mashed potatoes. The results showed a decline in the hardness and chewability of mashed potatoes alongside the migration of water from bound water states to weakly bound states under freeze-thaw cycles (FTC) conditions. Microstructural analysis indicated that the adhesive forces between proteins and starch granules were weakened, and the structure of mashed potatoes particles was destroyed following FTC. The oxidation and degradation of fat induced by FTC increased the content of key compounds such as octanal and nonanal, thereby contributing to an overall deterioration in the flavor of mashed potatoes. This study elucidates the effects of FTC on water migration, microstructure, and flavor characteristics of mashed potatoes, thereby providing a theoretical foundation for improving the quality of prefabricated frozen mashed potatoes dishes.